Q&A with Dr. Garshick
Do you need to differentiate between an AM and PM routine?
"Depending on your skincare concern, it may be important to distinguish your AM routine and your PM routine. For example, an AM routine can be designed to protect and prevent, using ingredients that protect your skin from environmental stressors throughout the day, while your PM routine can be used to repair and restore, allowing the skin to recover."
What are the differences in how you treat younger vs more mature skin?
"When we are younger, it is important to remember to protect the skin and prevent damage before it occurs. This means helping to protect the skin against UV damage and supporting the skin barrier to help keep the skin glowing. Additionally, when we are younger we are more likely to experience increased sebum and oil production, making it important to help eliminate excess oil when possible. As we age, our skin barrier weakens and we lose moisture and the skin may start to feel and look more dry and dull. Skin cell turnover also slows down as we get older, so those with mature skin may look for products that deeply hydrate and moisturize the skin, while also helping to exfoliate."
When looking for a moisturizer, what are some key things to consider?
"When looking for a moisturizer, it is important to look at the ingredients. Look for products containing humectants like hyaluronic acid, which help to draw moisture in, as this helps to hydrate, while also plumping the skin. While it is important for those with all skin types to use moisturizer, if you are oily or acne-prone, it may be important to look for a product that is lightweight and oil-free so it won’t clog the pores."
Why are treatments/serums important to include in a routine at any age?
"Serums help to deliver key active ingredients, such as antioxidants, exfoliating and hydrating ingredients to the skin making them a helpful addition to a skincare routine at any age. They are easy to layer into a morning or evening skincare routine and are best applied after cleansing/toning and prior to moisturizing."